News

CHOO-CHOO CHILI—Rockdale Historical Society held its annual Choo-Choo-Chili meal fund-raiser Saturday at the I&GN Railroad Museum grounds and raised approximately $1,250 to be used by the organization to maintain the facility. Society volunteers served up a big bargain for a $10 donation—a large cup of Donnie Marek’s famous Choo-Choo Chili, plus sides of chips, crackers, chopped onions, jalapeños, and a dessert. The event is the main fundraiser held by the society each year and the “take-out” event again drew strong support from the community. Above, Depot chili volunteer James Powell (L) with some happy customers, son-in-law James Cox and his youngsters Jameson, 12, Jonah, 9, and Nevina, 3. More photos on page 2A.

Genella Korenek, Finance Director, presented the Financial Integrity System of Texas (FIRST) report for Rockdale ISD. Rockdale ISD scored a 90 which is a Superior Rating.

TREE LIGHTING—Whinstone employees are in the process of putting up Rockdale’s Christmas tree. This year’s Rockdale Downtown Association’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Wolf Park will be held at 6 p.m. Nov. 18. Enjoy free chili and hot chocolate while it lasts, sponsored by the RDA and cooked by the nice folks at Climate Control AC & Heat. Rockdale’s new 32-foot tall Christmas tree will be lit at 7 p.m. Feel free to bring lawn chairs for seating. Reporter/Kyle Cooke